Jose Armando Lara left his home country of Mexico in search of better economic opportunities. Today, he works at a clinic and takes pride in helping others.

Mr. Lara was born in Veracruz, Mexico, a large city located on the Gulf coast. His memories of his hometown include a lot of family, friends, and traditions. His parents divorced when he was young, and his father moved to the U.S. When he was older, Mr. Lara immigrated to the U.S. in order to reunite with his father and to pursue better opportunities for his career.

In 1995, Mr. Lara immigrated to Minnesota. His first step out of the airport was one of the most unnerving experiences in his life. He found it difficult to adapt to the drastic differences in the U.S. From the weather to the language, everything seemed so foreign to him.

Currently, Mr. Lara works as an interpreter for the Affiliated Community Medical Centers. He has worked in the medical field for over a decade. He finds joy in helping other immigrants navigate the health care systems because he remembers how much help he needed. Mr. Lara lives in Willmar, Minnesota with his wife and son.